Voices from the Past - Understanding and Using Oral History
Module Leader: Iain Robertson
This module has a twin and interconnected focus. One strand offers a through grounding in the theoretical and methodological contexts to the collection and use of oral evidence. The second strand engages with the ways in which memory is made material in the process of memorialisation. Here consideration is given to the cultural role of landscape with a particular focus on the ways in which individual and collective memory gets written into place.
For the methodological focus students will engage with the following themes:
- What is the nature and role of oral history and where does it sit in the broader field of historical scholarship?
- What is the role of the interviewer in the collection of oral evidence?
- What is the significance of voice in oral history evidence?
- What is best technical and interview practice in the recording of oral history?
- How do the ethical responsibilities of the oral historian differ from those in other areas of history?
Oral History interview, photo courtesy of Alison Chand.
Indicative Content
Academic oral history in the UK originates in the history from below movement and its concern to rescue those otherwise ‘hidden from history’. Students will consider the implications of this and the role of oral history in the broader community history movement. In that it spans the practice of both academic and non-academic history the consideration of the theory and practice of the technique becomes central. Here too ethical principles will be discussed alongside the nature of historical evidence more generally.
In addition, oral history is not just about describing a dead past. It is about using that past to shape the present and future. Furthermore memories are shaped by ideologies, social relations and culture over time. This module will engage with these important historiographical concerns and explore them in the context of the cultural role of landscape and memorials. A particular focus will be on the ways in which individual and collective identity and memory gets written into place through monument making.
Coursework
- Essay (40%)
- Case study report (40%)
- Reflective Blog Entry (20%)
Method of Delivery
This module will be delivered by a combination of online learning and live discussions and sessions. The primary means of engagement and debate of weekly topics will be through the module Discussion Board. This will be enhanced through the running of regular live sessions, which will take place on a day and time to be confirmed before the start of semester. All live sessions will be recorded and so students who are unable to attend these opportunities will be able to view the recordings in their own time.
Module Reading List
See Module Resource List.
Fees and funding
See UHI website.